Tips for Coping with Teething Babies

A: Common signs of teething include drooling, gum rubbing, irritability, loss of appetite, and disturbed sleep.

A: Babies typically start teething around six months of age, but some babies can start as early as three months, while others may not start until twelve months or later.

A: Teething can be uncomfortable and painful for babies, as their teeth push through the gums.

A: Safe ways to relieve teething pain include providing a clean, cool, and safe object for the baby to chew on, massaging the gums with a clean finger or soft, wet cloth, and offering over-the-counter pain relievers if recommended by a pediatrician.

A: Parents can maintain good oral hygiene during teething by cleaning their baby’s gums and teeth regularly with a soft, wet cloth or toothbrush and using a small amount of fluoride toothpaste when brushing the baby’s teeth.

A: Cold, soft foods like frozen fruit or yogurt can help relieve teething discomfort.

A: Teething does not cause systemic symptoms like fever or diarrhea, but it can cause local symptoms like gum pain and irritability.

A: The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday, regardless of whether they have teeth.

A: Teething gels and tablets can be dangerous if they contain benzocaine, which can cause a serious condition called methemoglobinemia. It is best to check with a pediatrician before using any teething gels or tablets.

A: Parents should be concerned if their baby’s teething discomfort is severe or lasts for more than a few days, or if they notice any signs of infection like fever, swelling, or pus. In these cases, it is best to contact a pediatrician or dentist.

A: Teething can cause increased drooling, which can lead to ear infections, but teething itself does not directly cause ear infections.

A: Teething can cause disrupted sleep patterns, and soothing activities like a warm bath or gentle massage can help them sleep better.